Article Details - Overview
Cancer Summaries & Commentaries Vol. 1, No. 4
Release Date: October 31, 2008
Expiration Date: October 31, 2009
Publication Overview
Authors
Medical writer: Paul Card, PhD; Reviewed by: Suresh Ramalingam, MD
Overview and Purpose
Currently, the only targeted agent to have improved the efficacy of first-line chemotherapy in advanced non–small-cell lung cancer (NSCLC) is a monoclonal antibody (MoAb) targeting vascular endothelial growth factor. Approximately half of patients with NSCLC, including those with squamous cell carcinoma, central nervous system metastases, and a prior history of hemoptysis, however, are ineligible for MoAb therapy due to safety concerns. Several clinical trials are testing additional novel agents, such as MoAbs targeting epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR) or insulin-like growth factor-1 receptor (IGF-1R) in combination with standard chemotherapy regimens in patients with advanced NSCLC in an effort to increase efficacy, decrease toxicities, and expand the treatment-eligible patient population. Other studies are investigating novel cytotoxic agents and/or inhibitors of EGFR signaling or angiogenesis in combination with chemoradiation therapy for unresectable locally advanced NSCLC in order to improve outcomes for these patients.
The purpose of this activity is to inform physicians about advances in the integration of targeted agents into treatment regimens for patients with metastatic and locally advanced NSCLC.
Target Audience
This activity is intended for medical oncologists involved in the care of patients with lung cancer. No specific skills or knowledge other than a basic training in oncology is required for successful participation in this activity.
Learning Objectives
Upon completion of this educational activity, you should be able to:
- Evaluate the efficacy and safety of adding an anti-EGFR antibody to first-line chemotherapy in metastatic NSCLC
- Assess the activity and adverse event profile of an antibody targeting IGF-R plus a platinum-based regimen in advanced NSCLC
- Discuss clinical data on the addition of an anti-EGFR antibody to chemoradiation therapy in locally advanced NSCLC
- Appraise the feasibility of incorporating antiangiogenic and anti-EGFR agents into combined modality therapy in locally advanced NSCLC
Instructions for Participation
- Read the following information before entering the educational activity.
- Complete the Pretest
- Study the educational activity.
- Complete the CME test.
- Answer the evaluation questions.
- After successful completion of the CME test and evaluation, you will receive your certificate of credit online.
CME credit will be granted for only 1 form of participation, either online or via the printed publication.
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